The Christians Engaged Roadmap to Local Elections
By: The Leadership of Christians Engaged
Important Note: City and School Board elections are oftentimes nonpartisan races. Because of this, it is very important for voters to carefully research and scrutinize the candidates and their positions on the issues.
With voting, there is no such thing as an “off season”, and the decisions made by the leaders chosen in our local elections (such as city and school board elections) oftentimes make more of a direct impact in our lives than those who serve in Washington, DC.
It is time that the CHURCH take action and vote in every election—even local.
STEP 1: RESEARCH THE ELECTION DATES IN YOUR STATE
Visit your state’s elections website to find the election dates in your state. Make sure to put these dates on your calendar.
STEP 2: READ OUR BLOGS ON CITY & SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS
STEP 3: PULL YOUR SAMPLE BALLOT FROM YOUR COUNTY ELECTIONS DEPARTMENT
(You can find your sample ballot by entering your address HERE, but it may be incomplete. The most comprehensive list will be on your respective county’s elections website).
STEP 4: SPEND SOME TIME RESEARCHING THE CANDIDATES IN EACH RACE ON YOUR BALLOT & MAKE YOUR CHOICE
After you’ve completed STEP 1 (above), look at the candidate websites to see where they stand on the issues. Also check out their Facebook pages and other social media accounts.
Look at who supports them: organizations, groups, key endorsements, etc.
Look to outside sources for information on candidates’ backgrounds and fundraising information - like our friends at ivoterguide and transparencyusa (don’t be afraid to Google their names - you might be shocked at what you discover).
STEP 5: PRAY & ASK GOD FOR WISDOM TO PICK THE BEST CANDIDATE IN EACH RACE
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where Do I Vote? Your county elections department website should have a list of polling locations. Note: If you have Early Voting in your state, there are oftentimes fewer Early Voting locations than Election Day locations.
When is Early Voting? If your state offers Early Voting, check with your specific county’s elections department for exact times. (Bookmark it on your computer or phone for future use.)
Our podcast with Jami McCain, Former City Council Member & Executive Pastor - Being Light in our Cities - Watch or listen here: Video & Audio.
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